Mohit Mehra
Kathua, Sept 28: In a commendable and record-breaking achievement, Kathua Police, under the strategic and proactive leadership of Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Shobhit Saxsena, IPS, has set a new benchmark in its relentless war against drug trafficking. In just the first nine months of 2025, the district police have registered 97 drug-related cases and arrested a staggering 121 drug peddlers — an unprecedented success in the region’s recent policing history.
Upon taking charge as SSP Kathua, Shobhit Saxsena conducted a comprehensive review of the district’s law enforcement landscape and immediately initiated a focused, district-wide anti-narcotics strategy. In a coordinated effort, he mobilized and engaged Station House Officers (SHOs), In-Charges of Police Posts, and Sub-Divisional Police Officers (SDPOs) across the district, ensuring close supervision and direct accountability at every level.
Thanks to this well-structured approach, Kathua Police successfully foiled 97 drug smuggling attempts across seven out of the eight police stations in the district. Leading from the front, SHOs and their dedicated teams worked round the clock, demonstrating exemplary commitment and courage in breaking the nexus of drug peddlers that had been operating in the region.
Among all police stations, Kathua Police Station recorded the highest number of arrests and case registrations, followed by Billawar Police Station. However, what truly stands out is the unified resolve across the entire police force—a collective determination to root out the drug menace from every corner of the district.
Considering the difficult topography and challenging terrain of Kathua, the feat becomes even more noteworthy. Arresting 121 drug offenders and registering 97 cases in such a short time frame is no less than a significant policing milestone.
The anti-drug operation also led to major recoveries, including; 1110 grams of Heroin; 07 kilograms and 249 grams of Poppy Straw; 01 kilogram and 133 grams of Charas; 04 kilograms and 773 grams of Ganja; 126 kilograms and 656 grams of Opium Plants (approximately 1700 plants); 360 Tramadol tablets; 206 red tablets; and 10 strips of Alprazolam.
In addition to narcotic seizures, the police have also taken strong action under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, seizing 10 properties worth ₹3.05 crore, and demolishing two properties valued at ₹1.5 crore—sending a strong message that drug-related assets will not be spared.
This remarkable success reflects the visionary and disciplined leadership of SSP Shobhit Saxsena, whose dynamic style of policing and unwavering focus on public safety has reinvigorated the district’s anti-narcotics drive. His leadership has not only inspired the force but has also won the trust of the public in the police’s commitment to a drug-free Kathua.
